A short summary of Janine`s research: 

I am busy with 2 research projects. I always try to find innovative ways to teach challenging subjects, such as anatomy. Firstly, I incorporated building clay models to learn anatomy. Clay modelling is increasingly used as an anatomy teaching method to supplement practical dissection sessions. The use of clay modelling is an active, tactile learning tool utilized to improve student engagement and enhance students' understanding of anatomical relationships in human anatomy.

Secondly, I implemented ultrasound to teach living anatomy to students. Ultrasound (US) is increasingly used across the medical specialities as a diagnostic tool and as a result, medical faculties are being advised to further incorporate imaging into their programmes. Using US within undergraduate instruction has several benefits. The use of US, as a learning instrument, may strengthen existing anatomical knowledge and improve visual understanding of anatomy.

Research for Impact is one of the core strategic themes in SU`s Vision 2020. How does your research relate to that?

My research focuses on a learning-centred approach to teaching, whilst promoting a holistic understanding of teaching and learning.  This has created an embedded culture of innovation in my research.

In the ever-changing environment of academia, what are some of the obstacles early career researchers are faced with?   

-   Imposter syndrome!

-   Definitely time (lack of time due to increase admin duties) and funding.

-   Coping with change. In the past few years, we had to constantly cope with change. The only thing constant is change, whether it was building construction, pandemic, online learning, hybrid learning and trying to keep up with it all while finishing degrees.

What would you regard as the most important aspects to consider to effectively support early career researchers?            

Most of my time goes into my teaching, admin or online learning admin, so the little time I have left, I put into research and community engagement. As a foundational science division, we see thousands of students a year. So, most important aspect would be admin, online learning and academic support for lecturers.

What excites you about your work?   

I can talk about a subject that I genuinely enjoy and love! I get to see students` love of their subject increase, their academic performance improve and I can guide them in their choice of future career. It is really a very rewarding job! Also, teaching students during a practical session on cadaveric specimens is really a privilege.

Furthermore, finding innovative ways to teach anatomy like the clay models, ultrasound, virtual reality, setting up "game shows", letting student build anatomical games to learn, really excites me.

When you're not in the lab, library or in the field conducting research, what do you do to unwind?

Golf, hiking, netball, reading, travelling (love travelling!) and walking my 2 Scotties!

How has the ECAD programme of SU contributed to your research career?     

-          Improves my confidence in my ability to execute the research at hand

-          Helped me improve my communication/writing skills

-          Motivated me to submit "insight" pieces to journals

-          Gives me opportunities to attend workshop to better myself

-          Speak to early academics who are "in the same boat"

What advice, if any, would you look to impart to future early career academics?

Join ECAD! This program has really been so valuable!

Connect with Janine and her work!

https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Janine-Correia